Man, 21, stabbed to death after New Year's party; arrest made

Syracuse, NY -- An arrest has been made in the stabbing death of a 21-year-old early Saturday morning near the intersection of North Salina and Turtle streets, Syracuse police said.

Police have charged 35-year-old Malcolm J. Dame with first-degree manslaughter in the death of Daequan L. Kerce, 21. Dame is being held at the Justice Center jail; arraignment is scheduled for 9 a.m. Sunday.

Syracuse Police Chief Frank Fowler gave this account at a news conference Saturday afternoon: Kerce and Dame were at a party at 1315 N. Salina St. Dame, who had been drinking and acting obnoxiously to others at the party, started a physical altercation with his girlfriend and was asked to leave.

Once outside, he attempted to start a fight with another female. Kerce stepped in to attempt to stop the fight and he and Dame began fighting. During the altercation, Dame stabbed Kerce in the neck. Dame then fled and was chased by two other men. Police responding to a report of a fight apprehended Dame.

Kerce was taken to University Hospital where he died about 2:30 a.m.

Anyone with information on this incident should call Syracuse Police Criminal Investigation Division at 442-5222. All calls will be kept confidential.